Weekend in Corfu

Corfu's old town reflects centuries of Venetian rule more visibly than almost anywhere else in Greece, its narrow alleys and tall buildings genuinely resembling an Italian city, earning the historic centre UNESCO World Heritage status. The island's lush, green landscape, a result of higher rainfall than the drier Aegean islands, gives Corfu a noticeably different character from islands like Santorini or Mykonos, with olive groves and cypress trees covering much of the interior.

Why Corfu Works as a Weekend Destination

Corfu's weekend appeal lies in its genuinely distinct, Venetian-influenced architecture and lush, green scenery, setting it apart from the stereotypical image of a dry, whitewashed Greek island, giving visitors a different and arguably more varied landscape within a short trip.

Day 1: Corfu Old Town

• Morning exploring Corfu Old Town's Venetian-influenced streets, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Visit the Old Fortress, overlooking the town and harbour, for views and historical context.
• Walk through Liston, an elegant arcaded street built under French influence during a brief period of rule.
• Evening: dinner in the old town, sampling Corfiot cuisine, which carries genuine Venetian and Italian influences.

Day 2: The Coast and Achilleion

• Morning at the Achilleion Palace, built for Empress Elisabeth of Austria, set in gardens with views over the coast.
• Drive or take a tour to Paleokastritsa, known for its dramatic coastline and turquoise coves.
• Afternoon at a beach, with Corfu offering a good range from lively resorts to quieter coves.
• Final evening: a final walk through the old town as it lights up in the evening.

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• Notice the Venetian architectural influence — Corfu's old town genuinely resembles an Italian city more than a typical Greek island, a result of centuries of Venetian rule.
• Rent a car for Paleokastritsa and the coast — the island's most dramatic coastal scenery often requires independent transport to reach comfortably.
• Visit the Achilleion Palace — it offers an unusual royal history alongside coastal views, distinct from typical ancient ruin sightseeing.
• Corfu is greener than many other Greek islands — higher rainfall gives it a lush landscape worth noting if you're expecting a dry, Aegean-style island.
• Try Corfiot specialties like sofrito or pastitsada, both reflecting the island's distinct Venetian-influenced cuisine.